Rudolf Gaiseb
The revival of the Okahandja Annual Trade and Tourism Expo is expected to boost the town’s economy significantly this month.
The 14th edition of the expo is an opportunity for local entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative products and services.
The jamboree will highlight ground-breaking solutions from entrepreneurs, including eco-friendly tourism initiatives and digital trade platforms, and connect local artisans with global markets.
In her statement at the launch of the expo on Friday in Okahandja, International Relations and Trade minister Selma Ashipala-Musavyi highlighted that tourism and trade are vital engines of the economy. They create jobs, foster community development and promote cultural exchange.
“Innovation through entrepreneurship reflects the dynamic shifts in today’s business landscape. Technology is reshaping industries, consumer preferences are evolving, and sustainability has become a necessity rather than an option. Entrepreneurship remains at the core of this transformation by fostering an entrepreneurial mindset. We empower individuals to turn their ideas into thriving businesses, creating employment opportunities and driving economic prosperity,” she noted.
Also speaking at the expo’s launch was town mayor Beatrice Kotungondo, who emphasised that the expo will facilitate connections between entrepreneurs, investors and potential partners.
“We expect our filling stations to be overwhelmed with cars filling up. We expect our local bed-and-breakfasts to be filled up. We expect our local shops to have a boost in their sales during the weekend of the expo,” she enthused.
Kotungondo encouraged corporate companies, large businesses and small and medium enterprises to engage and showcase their talents and offerings through innovations during this expo.
A cornerstone of the local economy, the expo has been quiescent since 2020 after Covid-19 hit.
Otjozondjupa governor John //Khamuseb said the expo’s revival comes as a response to a strong call from the community and stakeholders.
“This year’s theme, ‘Reviving Okahandja Expo: Empowering Entrepreneurship through Innovation’, encapsulates our commitment to fostering an environment where creativity and business acumen can thrive. By focusing on innovation, we aim to inspire entrepreneurs to explore new ideas, adopt cutting-edge technologies and develop sustainable practices that will benefit not only their businesses, but also our broader community,” he stated.
“We believe that by empowering entrepreneurs through innovative practices, we can stimulate job-creation, drive economic growth and enhance the overall quality of life in Okahandja. It is crucial that we support these initiatives with resources, training programmes and access to markets,” he continued.
The Okahandja municipality has budgeted N$551 000.00 for the expo, while the expenditure will be N$815 000.00.
Various donors, sponsors and stakeholders, including artists, came on board on Friday, pledging varying amounts to fill the financial gap.
Local artisans, small businesses, agriculturalists, technology innovators and tourism operators are expected to participate.
Since its launch with just 60 exhibitors and over 3 000 visitors in 2009, the Okahandja Tourism and Trade Expo has witnessed remarkable growth.
By 2013, they had expanded to 97 exhibitors and welcomed more than 9 000 visitors.
In 2014, despite challenges faced by many sectors, the expo maintained a strong presence with 95 exhibitors.
This time, the expo will host workshops and seminars led by industry experts on topics such as business development strategies, digital marketing for small businesses, sustainable tourism practices, and innovation in product development to equip participants with valuable knowledge which can be applied directly to their ventures.
To enhance visitor engagement, they will incorporate cultural performances showcasing Namibian heritage.
Special initiatives will be in place to engage young entrepreneurs and innovators.
The expo will take place from 29 April to 3 May at the Okahandja Town Stadium.